Dangers of Returning Home After a Storm

Jordan Steib • October 5, 2022

If you compare this year to the last two hurricane seasons, Louisiana has been very much unscathed in 2022. Last Wednesday, August 28th, Hurricane Ian made landfall on Cayo Costa Island, Florida. This massive hurricane caused incredible devastation to countless communities. Our Large Loss team is currently in Florida helping many people recover from this storm. While our state was not affected this time around, the dangers of returning home after a storm remain the same. 


When you own a business or home, going through a natural disaster can be a terrifying experience. After the storm has passed, getting your business or residence repaired and back to normal may be another challenge that you have to face. Storm cleanup involves dealing with some scary health risks such as water contamination, waterborne diseases that cause illness, and microbial growth that you could be exposing you, your family or employees to. 


It is always good to be cautious about the following health and storm damage hazards when you are returning to your home. Keeping yourself, your family and team members safe and out of harm’s way helps you start the storm damage restoration process. 


Contaminated Water 

Hurricanes and severe storms can contaminate the public water supply, especially if the area has experienced tidal surge or flooding. Always be weary of drinking the water from a storm damage-affected area. 

Your home or other property may be submerged in flood water that is typically contaminated by sewage and harmful chemicals. The water may even carry diseases like cholera and E. coli. These can contain dangerous debris like broken glass and sharp metal. Be extremely cautious when trying to reenter your home or remove your belongings. 


Mold and Microbial Growth 

Standing water and excess moisture after natural disasters causes the growth of mold in homes. After water damage occurs, mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours.  


Children and people with weakened immune systems should not be part of the disaster cleanup work due to health concerns. Mold exposure can cause various health effects, like allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, headache, and fatigue. 


Controlling the moisture in your home is the most critical factor for preventing growth and removing mold is the only way to ensure you, your family or staff’s safety. It’s best to enlist a mold inspection and remediation service company to address these issues professionally. 


Electrical Safety Hazards 

When the storm is over, there is sure to be down power lines. Remain careful around down power lines and report them to utility companies as soon as possible. In addition, try to avoid standing water or puddles to reduce the risk of electric shock if there is a current present. 


If you enter your home or office and smell burning or see damaged wire, turn off the electricity immediately. Many of these electrical safety threats remain even after the severe weather is over. 


Restoration After the Storm 

Always remember that you are not in this alone! Contact a professional accredited by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) that can help you get your business or home back to normal after a hurricane or severe weather event. Do not hesitate to contact Guarantee Restoration Services for help. We are IICRC-certified storm disaster recovery professionals that are ready to respond 24/7 which is not just a number… it’s a GUARANTEE! 

Property restoration after water damage

Mitigation Vs. Restoration: Understanding the Disaster Recovery Process

By Jordan Steib • November 26, 2025
Learn the difference between mitigation and restoration and how GRS helps property owners recover quickly after disasters across the Gulf Coast.
Water Damage Mitigation in Jackson

How Mitigation Services Protect Jackson Homes and Businesses

By Christy Jones Huff • November 19, 2025
Protect your Jackson home or business from storms and flooding. Learn how GRS mitigation services reduce damage and restore stability.

Meet The Team | Savannah Dear

By Christina Mullins • November 12, 2025
For five and a half years, I’ve had the privilege of writing our Meet the Team blog series. About two years into my role, our department grew with the addition of a third team member. This November, I’m excited to introduce you to someone who has already made a positive impact on our team — our GRS Marketing Assistant, Savannah Dear . As we approach Thanksgiving in just two short weeks, it’s hard to believe the holiday season is nearly here. No matter how busy this time of year becomes, one thing remains constant: when it comes to property damage emergencies, our team is always here for you . Meet the Team | Savannah Dear Savannah was born in Monroe, Louisiana, and raised in Clinton, Mississippi. After graduating from Clinton High School in 2018, she attended the University of Mississippi, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Integrated Communication in 2023. In January 2024, she moved to Baton Rouge and began a career in Sales and Marketing with Orange Theory Fitness. We were thrilled to welcome her to the GRS team on August 26, 2024 . Life Outside of Work When Savannah isn’t assisting with social media content, organizing inventory, or supporting our sales team, she loves getting to know Baton Rouge. Her favorite pastimes include exploring the city, trying new restaurants with her boyfriend Jeremiah, spending time with friends, attending concerts, and playing with her dog, Honey. Singing is one of her favorite ways to unwind, and she will never turn down a karaoke night! She’s also an avid traveler, reality TV enthusiast, and sports fan. Her favorite teams include the New Orleans Pelicans, Pittsburgh Pirates, Washington Commanders, and her beloved — and slightly apologetic — Ole Miss Rebels. 
VIEW ALL BLOGS